Expectations and Responsibilities

General

All Little League coaches must be accepted and approved by the board and pass the standard Little League required background check. 

 

• Little League coaches must recognize they hold a position of leadership, trust and responsibility.  Coaches are charged with developing self-discipline and good sportsmanship, serving as a role model for both players and parents.  Remember, children often idolize their coaches – be a source of inspiration. 

• It is a requirement that the Team Manager, Coach and Assistant Coach(es) have an understanding with each other on roles and responsibilities, including the patience and capacity to work with each other, the children and the parents. 
  

 

Coaching

Responsible for providing the Team Manager with practice schedules and game schedules as well as providing timely updates for any changes/cancellations or other communications.

Proactively uses training tools available through the Little League Education Program for Managers and Coaches (including Assistant Coaches).  Information is available on www.littleleague.org.  Attendance at coaching clinics offered is mandatory. 

 

• Takes adequate precautions to prevent accident or injury and takes responsibility for maintenance of protective gear.  Safety is key!

• Understands and plays by the Rules and Regulations (rule book to be provided) of Little League and instills in the players a respect for the rules of the game.

• Ensures kids remain in the dugout and are respectful to team members.  Parents should not be in the dugout unless they are a volunteer that has passed a background check.

• Encourages sportsmanship and fair play, accepting defeat gracefully and victory with humility.

• Leads by example at all times.  Refrain from the use of insulting or abusive language.  Be a role model.

 

Other

Game and practice attendance is required.  The League understands that this is a volunteer position and ask that you only volunteer if you are able to attend most practices and games. In the event there is conflict, ensure that the Assistant Coach is available to attend in your absence.

 

Attendance at key events:

o   Opening Day

o   Colorado Rockies Day – All coaches are required to participate with their team. 

o   End of season picnic/BBQ/coaches water balloon toss.
 

Words to Remember

• Concentrate on positives
• Over Teach
• Amplify successes
• Compliment specifics
• Have Fun
• Instill laughter
• Never presume anything
• Get into their shoes.  Empathize.
• Set an example of good sportsmanship
• Promote team spirit
• Organize to avoid confusion
• Recognize progress
• Teach and assess skills
• Set reasonable expectations

© Darrell Burneet, Ph.D. Funagain Press